Related Experiment Videos
Leptospires in Rattus spp. on Barbados
K D Taylor1, L H Turner, J D Everard
1Leptospira Laboratory, St Michael, Barbados.
The Journal of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene
|April 1, 1991
Summary
Rats on Barbados carry Leptospira bacteria, with similar infection rates in Norway rats (Rattus norvegicus) and black rats (Rattus rattus). Norway rats more frequently shed bacteria causing severe human leptospirosis.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Medicine
- Infectious Diseases
- Zoonotic Pathogens
Background:
- Leptospirosis is a significant zoonotic disease globally.
- Rodents, particularly Rattus species, are known reservoirs for Leptospira.
- Understanding rodent populations and their role in disease transmission is crucial for public health.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the prevalence and serogroups of Leptospira in Rattus norvegicus and Rattus rattus populations on Barbados.
- To determine the potential risk of severe human leptospirosis posed by these rodent reservoirs.
Main Methods:
- Live trapping of Rattus norvegicus and Rattus rattus on Barbados between 1964-1965.
- Serological testing for leptospiral antibodies (seropositivity).
- Isolation and dark field microscopy for Leptospira detection in trapped rodents.
Main Results:
- Seropositivity rates were comparable between Rattus norvegicus (34%) and Rattus rattus (30%).
- Leptospira isolation rates were higher in Rattus norvegicus (27%) than Rattus rattus (15%).
- Rattus norvegicus predominantly carried serogroup Icterohaemorrhagiae, while Rattus rattus carried serogroup Autumnalis, both significant in human cases.
Conclusions:
- Both Norway rats and black rats on Barbados harbor Leptospira, posing a public health risk.
- Rattus norvegicus appears to be a more significant reservoir for Leptospira serogroups causing severe human leptospirosis on the island.